ICYMI: The Philippine Coast Guard conducted a virtual forum on contemporary issues on maritime safety, security and marine environmental protection as part of the 22nd National Maritime Week Celebration last 22 September 2021.

Coast Guard Deputy Commandant for Operations Vice Admiral (VADM) Eduardo Fabricante warmly welcomed the 368 participants from the Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine National Police Maritime Group, Philippine Navy, Department of Transportation (DOTr) and other maritime stakeholders.

Invited resource speakers from the PCG discussed topics on maritime security situation updates and action taken presented by Coast Guard (CG) Captain Mitzie Silva-Campo; sustaining maritime safety amidst challenges by CG Captain May Marfil and, PCG: The Philippine’s premier agency on marine environmental protection by CG Lieutenant Commander Roel Saguid.

An interactive discussion moderated by CG CAPT Algier Ricafrente was then followed addressed to PCG Functional Commanders who were the panel members, CG VADM Artemio M Abu (Maritime Safety Services Command); CG VADM Oscar C Endona Jr (Maritime Security and Law Enforcement Command); and CG Rear Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr (Marine Environmental Protection)

Likewise, VADM Narciso Vingson AFP (Ret), DOTr Assistant Secretary for Maritime, as the Keynote Speaker of the forum. He acknowledged the efforts and commitment of PCG in providing a safe and secure maritime environment and applaud the PCG for being visible even during rough seas, harsh weather day and night. VADM Vingson also assured that hand in hand agencies will continue to secure the country’s transport system and shape a more progressive maritime industry for the next generations to enjoy.

CG VADM Leopoldo Laroya, PCG Commandant expressed his thanks to the maritime community for their close cooperation to the Coast Guard. CG VADM Laroya stressed that the forum was a good opportunity for the PCG to deliberate on the strategies to pursue the mission of the organization in the future.